Intraocular lens injector

ABSTRACT

Apparatuses, systems, and methods for implanting an intraocular lens into an eye are described. For example, an intraocular lens injector may include a plunger and an injector body that includes an insertion depth guard and a nozzle extending therefrom. The insertion depth guard is disposed at a distal end of the injector body to limit a distance that the nozzle penetrates the eye. The intraocular lens injector may also include a biasing element configured to generate a counterforce to distal movement of the plunger through the injector rod. An example intraocular lens injector may include a biasing element to produce a counterforce that opposes advancement of the plunger through the injector body. The counterforce provides for a more continuous advancement of the plunger while reducing or substantially eliminating abrupt changes in the rate at which the plunger is advanced through the injector body.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.15/049,315, filed Feb. 22, 2016, and claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/128,356, filed Mar. 4, 2015, and claimsthe benefit U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/208,064, filed Aug. 21,2015, the entire contents of which are included herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to systems, apparatuses, and methods forintraocular lens injectors.

BACKGROUND

The human eye in its simplest terms functions to provide vision bytransmitting and refracting light through a clear outer portion calledthe cornea, and further focusing the image by way of the lens onto theretina at the back of the eye. The quality of the focused image dependson many factors including the size, shape and length of the eye, and theshape and transparency of the cornea and lens. When trauma, age ordisease cause the lens to become less transparent, vision deterioratesbecause of the diminished light which can be transmitted to the retina.This deficiency in the lens of the eye is medically known as a cataract.The treatment for this condition is surgical removal of the lens andimplantation of an artificial intraocular lens (“IOL”).

Many cataractous lenses are removed by a surgical technique calledphacoemulsification. During this procedure, an opening is made in theanterior capsule and a thin phacoemulsification cutting tip is insertedinto the diseased lens and vibrated ultrasonically. The vibratingcutting tip liquefies or emulsifies the lens so that the lens may beaspirated out of the eye. The diseased lens, once removed, is replacedby an artificial lens.

The IOL is injected into the eye through the same small incision used toremove the diseased lens. An IOL injector is used to deliver an IOL intothe eye.

SUMMARY

According to one aspect, the disclosure describes an intraocular lensinjector that may include an injector body, and a plunger slideablewithin a bore formed in the injector body. The injector body may includethe bore, an interior wall defining the bore, an insertion depth guarddisposed at a distal end of the injector body, and a nozzle extendingdistally beyond the insertion depth guard. The insertion depth guard mayinclude a flanged surface.

Another aspect of the disclosure encompasses an intraocular lensinjector. The intraocular lens injector may include an injector body anda plunger. The injector body may include a bore defined by an interiorwall and a nozzle formed at a distal end of the injector body. Theplunger may be slideable in the bore and may include a plunger tip. Thetip may include a first groove and a second groove nested within thefirst groove.

Another aspect of the disclosure encompasses an intraocular lensinjector that includes an injector body and a plunger. The injector bodyincludes a bore defined by an interior wall and a nozzle formed at adistal end of the injector body. The plunger is slideable in the boreand includes a plunger tip and a longitudinal axis. The plunger tipincludes a first protrusion extending distally from a first side of theplunger tip and a hinge disposed at a proximal end of the firstprotrusion. The first protrusion extends at an oblique angle relative tothe longitudinal axis and pivotable about the hinge.

The various aspects may include one or more of the following features.The flanged surface may be a curved surface. The curved surface may be aspherical surface. The plunger may include a body portion and a biasingelement disposed adjacent to a proximal end of the body portion. Thebiasing element may be deformable upon engagement with the injector bodyto produce a force resistive to further advancement of the plungerthrough the bore. The biasing element may include a channel, and whereinthe body portion of the plunger may extend through the channel. Theinjector body may include a tab formed at a proximal end thereof, agroove extending through the tab, and an aperture aligned with thegroove. The intraocular lens injector may also include a plunger stop.The plunger stop may include a protrusion. The plunger stop may beremovably received in the groove such that the protrusion extendsthrough the aperture and into a slot formed in the plunger. The plungermay include a cantilevered member. The bore may include a shoulder, andthe aperture formed in the injector body may align with the slot formedin the plunger when the cantilevered member engages the shoulder.

The various aspects may also include one or more of the followingfeatures. The injector body may include a compartment in communicationwith the bore. The compartment and the bore may be coupled together atan interface. The interior wall may include a tapered portion thatdefines an opening that provides communication between the bore and thecompartment. The interior wall may include a flexible wall portiondisposed at the opening. The plunger may include a plunger rod, and thecompartment may include a receiving surface adapted to receive anintraocular lens. The receiving surface may include a contoured rampdisposed distally from the opening. The flexible wall portion may beconfigured to align the plunger rod within the opening. The contouredramp may be configured to deflect the plunger rod in a second directionopposite the first direction as the plunger rod is advanced through thecompartment. The plunger may include a cantilevered member, and thecantilevered member may deflectively engage the interior wall of thebore as the plunger is advanced through the bore.

The various aspects may include one or more of the following features.The second groove may be formed at a first end of the first groove. Asecond end of the first groove opposite the first end may be configuredto capture a trailing haptic of an intraocular lens disposed in theinjector body, and the second groove may be adapted to capture aproximal end of an optic of the intraocular lens. The plunger mayinclude a plunger rod, and at least a portion of the plunger rod may beangularly offset from a longitudinal axis of the plunger rod. Theinjector body may include an insertion depth guard disposed at a distalend of the injector body, and the insertion depth guard may include aflanged surface. A cross-sectional dimension of the insertion depthguard may be larger than a cross-sectional dimension of the nozzle. Theflanged surface may be a curved surface. The plunger may include abiasing element disposed adjacent to a proximal end of the plunger. Thebiasing element may be deformable upon engagement with the injector bodyto produce a force resistive to further advancement of the plungerthrough the bore. The biasing element may include a channel, and whereinthe body portion of the plunger may extend through the channel. A firstgroove may be disposed adjacent to second protrusion and adapted toreceive an optic of an intraocular lens.

It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description andthe following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory innature and are intended to provide an understanding of the presentdisclosure without limiting the scope of the present disclosure. In thatregard, additional aspects, features, and advantages of the presentdisclosure will be apparent to one skilled in the art from the followingdetailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example intraocular lens injector.

FIG. 2 shows a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the intraocular lensinjector of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a distal portion of an example injectorbody of the intraocular lens injector of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the distal portion of the injectorbody shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is an example cross-sectional shape of a nozzle of an intraocularlens injector.

FIG. 6 shows an intraocular lens injector partially inserted into aneye.

FIG. 7 shows a construction method for defining a flanged surface of aninsertion depth guard of an example intraocular lens injector.

FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional view of an intraocular lens receivingcompartment formed in an injector body.

FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of an intraocular lens receivingcompartment formed in an injector body.

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a plunger.

FIG. 11 is a bottom view of a plunger.

FIG. 12 is a partial perspective view showing tabs and a plunger lock ofan example intraocular lens injector.

FIG. 13 is a detail view of an example plunger tip of plunger.

FIG. 14 shows an example interior surface of a door enclosing alens-receiving compartment of an intraocular lens injector.

FIG. 15 shows deformation experienced by an example spring duringadvancement of a plunger of an intraocular lens injector.

FIG. 16 is a detail view of a plunger with another example biasingelement design.

FIG. 17 illustrates a plunger having yet another example biasing elementdesign.

FIG. 18 shows another plunger with a further example biasing elementdesign.

FIG. 19 is a detail view of the distal end of the IOL injector showing ademarcation designating a pause position of an IOL being advancedthrough the IOL injector.

FIG. 20 is a view of a distal end 60 of an IOL injector with an IOLlocated therein at a pause position.

FIG. 21 is a detail view of an example IOL injector showing an openingat an interface between a compartment into which an IOL is received andan internal bore of an injector body, the detail view being transverseto a longitudinal axis of the IOL injector, and the detail view showinga flexible wall portion in contact with an injector rod.

FIG. 22 is a partial cross-sectional view of an example IOL injector.

FIGS. 23-24 show an example advancement stop coupled to a plunger.

FIGS. 25-26 show another example advancement stop coupled to a plunger.

FIG. 27 shows an example IOL.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of an example plunger tip.

FIG. 29 is a side view of the example plunger tip of FIG. 28.

FIG. 30 is a top view of the example plunger tip of FIG. 28.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of thepresent disclosure, reference will now be made to the implementationsillustrated in the drawings, and specific language will be used todescribe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitationof the scope of the disclosure is intended. Any alterations and furthermodifications to the described devices, instruments, methods, and anyfurther application of the principles of the present disclosure arefully contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art towhich the disclosure relates. In particular, it is fully contemplatedthat the features, components, and/or steps described with respect toone implementation may be combined with the features, components, and/orsteps described with respect to other implementations of the presentdisclosure.

The present disclosure relates to systems, apparatuses, and methods fordelivering an IOL into an eye. FIGS. 1 and 2 show an example IOLinjector 10 that includes an injector body 20 and a plunger 30. Theinjector body 20 defines a bore 40 extending from a proximal end 50 ofthe injector body 20 to a distal end 60 of the injector body 20. Theplunger 30 is slideable within the bore 40. Particularly, the plunger 30is slideable within bore 40 in order to advance an IOL, such as IOL 70,within the injector body 20. The IOL injector 10 also includes alongitudinal axis 75. The longitudinal axis 75 may extend along theplunger 30 and define a longitudinal axis of the plunger 30.

The injector body 20 includes a compartment 80 operable to house an IOLprior to insertion into an eye. In some instances, a door 90 may beincluded to provide access to the compartment 80. The door 90 mayinclude a hinge 100 such that the door 90 may be pivoted about the hinge100 to open the compartment 80. The injector body 20 may also includetabs 110 formed at the proximal end 50 of the injector body 20. The tabs110 may be manipulated by fingers of a user, such as an ophthalmologistor other medical professional, to advance the plunger 30 through thebore 40.

FIGS. 3-5 illustrate details of the distal end 60 of the injector body20. In some instances, the distal end 60 has a tapered exterior surface.Further, the distal end 60 includes a passage 64 that tapers towards adistal opening 125. The injector body 20 also includes a nozzle 120 atthe distal end 60. The nozzle 120 is adapted for insertion into an eyeso that an IOL may be implanted. An IOL is expelled from distal opening125 formed in the nozzle 120. As shown in FIG. 5, the nozzle 120 mayhave an elliptical cross section. Additionally, the nozzle 120 mayinclude a beveled tip 130. The compartment 80, passage 64, and opening125 may define a delivery passage 127. A size of the delivery passage127 may vary along its length. That is, in some instances, a height H1of the passage may change along a length of the delivery passage 127.The variation in size of the delivery passage 127 may contribute to thefolding of the IOL as it is advanced therealong.

In some instances, the injector body 20 may include an insertion depthguard 140. The insertion depth guard 140 may form a flanged surface 150that is adapted to abut an exterior eye surface. The insertion depthguard 140 abuts an eye surface and, thereby, limits an amount by whichthe nozzle 120 is permitted to extend into an eye. In someimplementations, the flanged surface 150 may have a curvature thatconforms to the outer surface of an eye. For example, the flangedsurface 150 may have a curvature that conforms to a scleral surface ofthe eye. In other instances, the flanged surface 150 may have acurvature that corresponds to a corneal surface of the eye. In stillother instances, the flanged surface 150 may have a curvature, part ofwhich corresponds to a scleral surface and another part that correspondsto a corneal surface. Thus, the flanged surface 150 may be concave. Inother instances, the flanged surface 150 may be flat. In still otherinstances, the flanged surface 150 may be convex. Further, the flangedsurface 150 may have any desired contour. For example, the flangedsurface 150 may be a curved surface having radii of curvature that varyalong different radial directions from a center of the flanged surface150. In still other instances, the flanged surface 150 may define asurface that has varying curvature along different radial directions aswell as curvature that varies along one or more particular radialdirections.

In FIG. 3, the insertion depth guard 140 is shown as a continuousfeature that forms a continuous flanged surface 150. In someimplementations, the insertion depth guard 140 may be segmented into aplurality of features or protrusions forming a plurality ofeye-contacting surfaces. These eye-contacting surfaces may work inconcert to control the depth to which the nozzle 120 may penetrate aneye. In other implementations, the insertion depth guard 140 may beomitted.

An example implementation of the insertion depth guard 140 is shown inFIGS. 6-7. In FIG. 6, the IOL injector 10 is shown with the nozzle 120inserted into an eye 151 through a wound 152 formed in the eye. Thus, asexplained above, the flanged surface 150 of the insertion depth guard140 may be spherical in nature in order to conform to the eye 151 whenthe nozzle 120 is fully inserted thereinto.

FIG. 7 shows a side view of the distal portion of the IOL injector 10showing an example layout for defining a shape of the flanged surface150. In this illustrated example, the surface is defined to be sphericalin nature. Thus, in some instances, the flanged surface may be describedas a “spherical surface” which is understood to mean a surface thatconforms to a sphere. A spherical surface of the flanged surface 150 mayapproximate the shape of an eye. However, a spherical surface isprovided only as an example. Thus, the shape of the flanged surface 150may be any desired shape.

As shown, a center 153 for use in defining a spherical surface of theflange surface 150 may be located relative to the nozzle 120 of the IOLinjector 10. A center 153 of the spherical surface may be located toproduce, for example, a desired length 154 of the nozzle 120 thatextends beyond the flanged surface 150 and, thus, into an eye.

The injector body 20 may include a tapered portion 155. The nozzle 120and tapered portion 155 meet at a location 156. A horizontal position ofthe center 153 may be made in reference to the location 156. Forexample, a horizontal displacement 157 of the center 153 from location156 may be in the range of 7.6 mm to 8.0 mm. Accordingly, in someimplementations, the center 153 may have a horizontal displacement of7.6 mm, 7.7 mm, 7.8 mm, 7.9 mm, or 8.0 mm. A vertical position of thecenter 153 may be defined by a vertical distance 158 from thelongitudinal axis 75. In some instances, the vertical displacement 158may be 2.3 mm to 2.7 mm. Thus, in some implementations, the center 153may have a horizontal displacement of 2.3 mm, 2.4 mm, 2.5 mm, 2.6 mm, or2.7 mm. However, it is noted that the ranges of the horizontaldisplacement 157 and the vertical displacement 158 of the center 153 areprovided only as examples. Thus, the values of the horizontaldisplacement 157 and vertical displacement 158 of the center 153 maygreater or smaller than the examples provided or any value in between.Moreover, the horizontal displacement 157 and vertical displacement 158may be any desired length.

In some implementations, a radius 159 of spherical surface 160 may besized to correspond to a radius of an eye. In some instances, the radius159 may be within the range of 7.5 mm to 8.1 mm. Thus, the radius may be7.5 mm, 7.6 mm, 7.7 mm, 7.8 mm, 7.9 mm, 8.0 mm, or 8.1 mm. These valuesare provided only as examples. Accordingly, it is within the scope ofthe disclosure that the radius 159 may be greater or smaller than thevalues provided or any value in between. Consequently, the value ofradius 159 may be any desired value.

The values of the horizontal displacement 157, vertical displacement158, and radius 159 may be selected to produce a nozzle length 154 ofany desired size. For example, in some instances, these values may beselected to produce a nozzle length 154 of between 1.0 mm and 5.0 mm. Insome implementations, the length of the nozzle 120 may be 2.0 mm. Inother instances, the length of the nozzle 120 may be 3.0 mm. In someinstances, the nozzle 120 may be 4.0. In still other instances, thelength of the nozzle 120 may be 5.0 mm. However, the scope of thedisclosure is not so limited. Rather, the length of the nozzle 120 maybe greater or less than the values presented or any value in between.Moreover, the length of nozzle 120 may be any desired length.

FIG. 8 shows a cross-sectional detail view of the compartment 80 and aportion of bore 40 of the example injector body 20 shown in FIG. 2. Thebore 40 is defined by an interior wall 298. The interior wall 298includes a tapered portion that includes a first tapered wall 301 and asecond tapered wall 303. The tapered portion of the interior wall 298defines an opening 170 at an interface 172 between the bore 40 and thecompartment 80. The opening 170 includes a height H1. The distal endportion 211 of the plunger rod 210 has a height of H2. In someinstances, height H1 may be larger than height H2, such that, initially,there is no interference between the plunger rod 210 and the interiorwall 298 at the opening 170. In other instances, height H1 may be equalto or larger than height H2, such that the plunger rod 210 and theopening 170 initially have an interference fit. In some implementations,the first tapered wall 301 includes a flexible wall portion. In theexample shown, the flexible wall portion 162 is an obliquely-extending,flexible portion of the interior wall 298 and, particularly, of thefirst tapered wall 301. As shown in FIG. 9, in some instances, portionsof the first tapered wall 301 are removed, forming voids 163 that flankthe flexible wall portion 162. Thus, in some instances, the flexiblewall portion 162 may extend in a cantilevered manner.

Referring again to FIG. 8, in some instances, the flexible wall portion162 may be sloped toward the distal end 60 of the injector body 20. Insome instances, an angle B defined by the flexible wall portion 162 andthe longitudinal axis 75 may be in the range of 20° to 60°. For example,in some instances, the angle B may be 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°, 45°, 50°,55°, or 60°. Further, the angle B may be greater or smaller than thedefined range or anywhere within the recited range. Moreover, the scopeof the disclosure is not so limited. Thus, the angle B may be anydesired angle.

The injector body 20 may also include a contoured ramp 180 formed alongan interior receiving surface 190 of the compartment 80. Generally, theinterior receiving surface 190 is the surface on which an IOL, such asIOL 70, is placed when loaded into the IOL injector 10. FIG. 9 is aperspective view of a portion of the example injector body 20 shown inFIG. 2. The door 90 is not shown. In some instances, a vertical distanceC between a tip of the flexible wall portion 162 and the top of thecontoured ramp 180 may correspond with a height H2 of a distal endportion 211 of the plunger rod 210. In other instances, the distance Cmay be greater or less than the height H2 of the distal end portion 211of the plunger rod 210. The flexible wall portion 162 and contoured ramp180 are discussed in more detail below.

As also shown in FIG. 9, the injector body 20 may include a contouredsurface 192 that is offset from the receiving surface 190. A wall 194 isformed adjacent to the contoured surface 192. A freely extending end 452of a haptic 450 contacts the contoured surface 192 when IOL 70 isreceived into the compartment 80.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 10-11, the plunger 30 may include a bodyportion 200, a plunger rod 210 extending distally from the body portion200, and a plunger tip 220 formed at a distal end 230 of the plunger rod210. The plunger 30 may also include a flange 240 formed at a proximalend 250 of the body portion 200. A biasing element 260 may be disposedon the plunger 30. In some instances, the biasing element 260 may be aspring. In some implementations, the biasing element 260 may be disposedadjacent to the flange 240. A proximal end 262 may be fixedly attachedat the body portion adjacent to the flange 240. In other instances, thebiasing element 260 may be disposed at another location along the bodyportion 200. In still other implementations, the biasing element 260 maybe formed or otherwise disposed on the injector body 20 and adapted toengage the plunger 30 at a selected location during advancement of theplunger 30 through bore 40.

The flange 240 may be used in concert with the tabs 110 to advance theplunger 30 through the injector housing 20. For example, a user mayapply pressure to tabs 110 with two fingers while applying opposingpressure to the flange 240 with the user's thumb. A surface of theflange 240 may be textured in order to provide positive gripping by auser. In some instances, the texture may be in the form of a pluralityof grooves. However, any desired texture may be utilized.

The body portion 200 may include a plurality of transversely arrangedribs 270. In some instances, the ribs 270 may be formed on both a firstsurface 280 and a second surface 290 of the body portion 200. In otherinstances, the ribs 270 may be formed on only one of the first surface280 and second surface 290. A longitudinally extending rib 300 may alsobe formed on one or both of the first and second surfaces 280, 290.

In some instances, the body portion 200 may also include one or moreprotrusions 202, as shown in FIG. 11. The protrusions 202 may extendlongitudinally along a length of the body portion 200. The protrusions202 may be received grooves 204 formed in the injector body 20, as shownin FIG. 1. The protrusions 202 and grooves 204 interact to align theplunger 30 within the bore 40 of the injector body 20.

The body portion 220 may also include cantilevered members 292. Thecantilevered members 292 may extend from a proximal end 294 of the bodyportion 200 towards the distal end 250. The cantilevered members 292 mayinclude flared portions 296. The cantilevered members 292 may alsoinclude substantially horizontal portions 297. The flared portions 296are configured to engage the interior wall 298 of the injector body 20that defines the bore 40, as shown in FIG. 2. Engagement between thecantilevered members 292 and the interior wall 298 generates a forceresistive to advancement of the plunger 30 and provides a tactilefeedback to the user during advancement of the plunger 30. For example,in some implementations, the resistive force generated by contactbetween the cantilevered members 292 and the interior wall 298 mayprovide a baseline resistance that resists advancement of the plunger30.

In some instances, the plunger rod 210 may include an angled portion212. The distal end portion 211 may form part of the angled portion 212.The angled portion 212 may define an angle, A, within the range of 1° to5° with the longitudinal axis 75. In some instances, the angle A may be2°. In some instances, the angle A may be 2.5°. In still otherinstances, the angle A may be 3°, 3.5°, 4°, 4.5°, or 5°. Further, whilethe above values of A are provided as examples, the angle A may begreater or less than the indicated range or any value in between. Thus,the angle A may be any desired angle.

The angled portion 212 ensures that the plunger tip 220 contacts andfollows the receiving surface 190 as the plunger 30 is advanced throughthe bore 40. Particularly, the angle A defined by the angled portion 212exceeds what is needed to cause the plunger tip 220 to contact theinterior wall 298 of the bore 40. That is, when the plunger 30 isdisposed within the bore 40, engagement between the plunger tip 220 andthe interior wall 298 causes the angled portion 212 to bend inwardly dueto the angle A. Consequently, the angled portion 212 ensures that theplunger tip 220 properly engages the haptics and optic of an IOL beinginserted from the IOL injector 10. This is described in greater detailbelow. Although the angled portion 212 is shown as being a substantiallystraight portion bent at an angle relative to the remainder of theplunger rod 210, the scope is not so limited. In some instances, aportion of plunger rod 210 may have a continuous curvature. In otherinstances, an entire length of the plunger rod 210 may be bent or have acurvature. Further, the amount of angular offset from the longitudinalaxis 75 or amount of curvature may be selected in order to provide adesired amount of engagement between the plunger tip 220 and theinterior surfaces of the injector body 20.

The biasing element 260 may be affixed to the body portion 200 adjacentto the flange 240. In some instances, the biasing element 260 may form ahoop 310 extending distally along the body portion 200 that functions asa spring to resist advancement of the plunger 30 when the hoop 310engages the injector body 20. The biasing element 260 may also include acollar 261 channel 320 through which the body portion 200 extends. Thus,in operation, as the plunger 30 is advanced through the bore 40 of theinjector body 20 (i.e., in the direction of arrow 330), a distal end 265of the biasing element 260 contacts the proximal end 50 of the injectorbody 20 at a selected location along the stroke of the plunger 30. Asthe injector 30 is further advanced, the biasing element 260 iscompressed and the channel 320 permits the distal end 265 of the biasingelement 260 to move relative to the body portion 200. Similarly, thechannel 320 permits relative movement between the body portion 200 andthe distal end 265 of the biasing element 260 during proximal movementof the plunger 30 (i.e., in the direction of arrow 340).

The biasing element 260 in the form of hoop 310, shown, for example, inFIG. 2, is provided merely as an example. The biasing element 260 mayhave other configurations. For example, FIG. 16 illustrates a biasingelement having elongated elliptical or oval members 1600 disposed onopposite sides of the body portion 200 of the plunger 30 and attached tothe flange 240. FIG. 17 shows another example configuration of thebiasing element 260. In FIG. 17, the biasing element 260 is in the formof curved, cantilevered members 1700 provided on opposing sides of thebody portion 200 of the plunger 30. The cantilevered members 1700 areattached to the flange 240. FIG. 18 shows an example in which thebiasing element 260 is integrated into the body portion 200 of theplunger 30. The biasing element 260 includes arcuate members 1800 thatengage an interior wall that defines the bore 40 of the injector body20. While some examples are provided, the scope of the disclosure is notso limited. Rather, biasing elements having other forms andconfigurations are included within the scope of the disclosure.

Referring to FIGS. 2, 11, and 12, the IOL injector 10 may also include aplunger lock 350. The plunger lock 350 is removably disposed in a groove360 formed in one of the tabs 110. The plunger lock 350 includes aprotrusion 370 formed at one end thereof. The plunger lock 350 mayinclude a single protrusion 370, as shown in FIG. 2. In other instances,the plunger lock 350 may include a plurality of protrusions 370. Forexample, FIG. 12 illustrates an example plunger lock 350 having twoprotrusions 370. In other instances, the plunger lock 350 may includeadditional protrusions 370.

When installed, the protrusion 370 extends through an aperture 375formed in the injector body 20 and is received into a slot 380 formed inthe plunger 30. When the plunger lock 350 is installed, the protrusion370 and slot 380 interlock to prevent the plunger 30 from moving withinthe bore 40. That is, the installed plunger lock 350 prevents theplunger 30 from being advanced through or removed from the bore 40. Uponremoval of the plunger lock 350, the plunger 30 may be freely advancedthrough the bore 40. In some instances, the plunger lock 350 may includea plurality of raised ribs 390. The ribs 390 provide a tactileresistance to aid in removal from and insertion into groove 360.

The plunger lock 350 may be U-shaped and define a channel 382. Thechannel 382 receives a portion of the tab 110. Further, when fitted ontothe tab 110, a proximal portion 384 of the plunger lock 350 may beoutwardly flexed. Consequently, the plunger lock 350 may be frictionallyretained on the tab 110.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 10, in some implementations, the body portion20 may include shoulders 392 formed in bore 40. The shoulders 392 may beformed at a location in the bore 40 where the bore 40 narrows from anenlarged proximal portion 394 and a narrower distal portion 396. In someinstances, the shoulder 392 may be a curved surface. In other instances,the shoulder 392 may be defined a stepped change in the size of bore 40.

The cantilevered members 292 may engage the shoulder 392. In someimplementations, the flared portion 296 of the cantilevered members 292may engage the shoulder 392. In some instances, a location at which thecantilevered members 292 engage the shoulder 392 may be one in which theslot 380 aligns with the aperture 375. Thus, in some implementations,engagement between the cantilevered members 292 and shoulder 392 mayprovide a convenient arrangement for insertion of the plunger lock 350to lock the plunger 30 in place relative to the injector body 20. Inother implementations, the slot 380 and the aperture 375 may not alignwhen the cantilevered members 292 engage the shoulder 392.

As the plunger 30 is advanced through the bore 40, the flared portion296 of the cantilevered members 292 may be inwardly displaced to complywith the narrowed distal portion 396 of the bore 40. As a result of thisdeflection of the flared portion 296, the cantilevered members 292 applyan increased normal force to the interior wall 298 of the bore 40. Thisincreased normal force generates a frictional force that resistsadvancement of the plunger 30 through bore 40, thereby providing tactilefeedback to the user.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the IOL injector may also include an IOLstop 400. The IOL stop 400 is received into a recess 410 formed in anouter surface 420 the door 90. The IOL stop 400 may include a protrusion430 that extends through an opening 440 formed in the door. Theprotrusion 430 extends between a haptic and optic of an IOL loaded intothe compartment 80. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 27, the IOL 70 includeshaptics 450 and an optic 460. The protrusion 430 is disposed between oneof the haptics 450 and the optic 460. The IOL stop 430 may also includea tab 435. The tab 435 may be gripped by a user for removal of the IOLstop 430 from the injector body 20.

The IOL stop 400 may also include an aperture 470. The aperture 470aligns with another opening formed in the door 90, for example opening472 shown in FIG. 19. The aperture 470 and second opening 472 in thedoor 90 form a passageway through which a material, such as aviscoelastic material, may be introduced into the compartment 80.

The IOL stop 400 is removable from the door 90. When installed, the IOLstop 400 prevents advancement of the IOL, such as IOL 70. Particularly,if advancement of the IOL 70 is attempted, the optic 460 contacts theprotrusion 430, thereby preventing advancement of the IOL 70.

FIG. 13 shows an example plunger tip 220. The plunger tip 220 mayinclude a first protrusion 480 and a second protrusion 490 extendingfrom opposing sides. The first and second protrusions 480, 490 define afirst groove 500. The first groove 500 defines a surface 502. A secondgroove 510 is formed within the first groove 500. The first groove 500,particularly in combination with the first protrusion 480, serves tocapture and fold a trailing haptic of an IOL. The second groove 510functions to capture and fold an optic of an IOL.

A side wall 520 of the plunger tip 220 may be tapered. The tapered sidewall 520 may provide a nesting space for a gusseted portion of thetrailing haptic of an IOL. The gusseted portion of the haptic tends toremain proximal to the IOL optic. Thus, the tapered side wall 520 mayprovide a nesting space that promotes proper folding of the IOL duringdelivery into an eye.

FIGS. 28-30 show another example plunger tip 220. This plunger tip 220includes a first protrusion 600, a second protrusion 602, and a groove604. The first protrusion extends at an oblique angle θ fromlongitudinal axis 606. In some instances, the angle θ may be between 25°to 60°. In other instances, the angle θ may be lower than 25° or largerthan 60°. In other instances, the angle θ may be between 0° to 60°. Instill other implementations, the angle θ may be between 0° and 70°; 0°and 80°; or 0° and 90°. Generally, the angle θ may be selected to be anydesired angle. For example, the angle θ may selected based on one ormore of the following: (1) a size, such as a height, of passage 64formed within the nozzle 60; (2) the height of the compartment 80; (3)how the height of the passage 64 and/or compartment varies along theirrespective lengths; and (3) the thickness of the plunger tip 220. Thesecond protrusion 602 may include a tapered portion 608. The taperedportion 608 is operable to engage an optic of an IOL, such as optic 460shown in FIG. 27. The optic may slide along the tapered surface so thatthe optic may be moved into the groove 604. As a result, the secondprotrusion 602 is positioned adjacent to a surface of the optic.

The example plunger tip 220 shown in FIGS. 28-30 also include a surface610 that may be similar to the surface 502. The surface 610 is adaptedto contact and displace a trailing or proximally extending haptic, suchas haptic 450 shown in FIG. 27, so that the haptic folds. In someinstance, the surface 610 may be a flat surface. In other instances, thesurface 610 may be a curved or otherwise contoured surface. The exampleplunger tip 220 may also include a side wall 612 and support surface613. Similar to the side wall 520, the side wall 612 may be tapered, asshown in FIG. 30. In some instances, the side wall 612 may include afirst curved portion 614. The first curved portion 614 may receive abent portion of the trailing haptic that remains proximal to the opticduring folding. The trailing haptic is supported by support surface 613during the folding process. The side wall 612 may also include a secondcurved surface 615.

The obliquely-extending first protrusion 600 effectively increases aheight H2, as compared to the plunger tip 220 shown in FIG. 13, forexample. This increased height H2 improves the ability of the plungertip 220 to capture the trailing haptic during advancement of the plunger30. In operation, as the plunger 30 is advanced distally, the distal end618 engages an interior wall of the delivery passage 127 due to changesin the height H1 of the delivery passage 127. As the height H1decreases, the first protrusion 600 pivots about hinge 620, effectivelyreducing the total height H2 of the plunger tip 220. As the firstprotrusion 600 pivots about hinge 620 and rotated in a direction towardsthe second protrusion 602, the first protrusion 600 captures thetrailing haptic between the optic of the IOL and the first protrusion600. Therefore, with the first protrusion 600 pivotable about the hinge620, the size of the plunger tip 220 is able to adapt and conform to thechanging height H1 of the delivery passage 127 as the IOL is advanceddistally and folded.

FIG. 14 shows an interior surface 530 of door 90. The surface 510 mayinclude a ridge 530. The ridge 530 may include a curved portion 540. Inthe example illustrated, the curved portion 540 extends proximally andinwardly towards the longitudinal axis 75. The curved portion 540 isconfigured to overlay a portion of a trailing haptic of an IOL, whichpromotes proper folding of the IOL when the plunger 30 is advancedthrough the injector body 20.

In operation, the plunger lock 350 may be inserted into the groove 360to lock the plunger 30 in position relative to the injector body 20. AnIOL, such as IOL 70, may be loaded into the compartment 80. For example,the door 90 may be opened by a user and a desired IOL inserted into thecompartment 80. The door 90 may be closed upon insertion of the IOL intothe compartment 80. In some instances, an IOL may be preloaded duringmanufacturing.

The IOL stop 400 may be inserted into the recess 410 formed in the door90. Viscoelastic material may be introduced into the compartment 80 viathe aligned aperture 470 and corresponding opening formed in the door90. The viscoelastic material functions as a lubricant to promoteadvancement and folding of the IOL during advancement and delivery ofthe IOL into an eye. In some instances, the viscoelastic material may beintroduced into the compartment 80 at the time of manufacturing.

The IOL stop 400 may be removed from the recess 410 formed in the door90, and the plunger lock 350 may be removed from the groove 360. Theplunger 30 may be advance through the bore 40. Sliding engagementbetween the cantilevered members 292 and the interior wall 298 of theinjector body 20 generates a resistive force that resists advancement ofplunger 30. In some instances, the plunger 30 may be advanced throughthe bore 40 until the plunger tip 220 extends into the compartment 80.For example, the plunger 30 may be advanced until the plunger tip 220 isadjacent to or in contact with the IOL. In other instances, the plunger30 may be advanced through the bore 40 such that the IOL is partially orfully folded. Further, the plunger 30 may advance the IOL to a positionwithin the nozzle just short of being ejected from the distal opening125. For example, in some instances, advancement of the plunger 30,prior to insertion of the nozzle 120 into a wound formed in the eye, maybe stopped at the point where the distal end 265 of the biasing element260 contacts the proximal end 50 of the injector body 20, as shown inFIG. 15.

Advancement of the plunger 30 through the injector body 20 is discussedbelow with reference to FIGS. 1, 8, and 13. In some instances,dimensional tolerances between the plunger 30 and the injector body 20may permit relative movement between the plunger 30 and the injectorbody 20 such that the distal end portion 211 is able to move within bore40 in the direction of arrows 471, 472 (referred to hereinafter as“tolerance movement”). In instances, particularly those in which theplunger 30 includes angled portion 212, the plunger tip 220 normallyremains in contact with the interior wall 298 even if the plunger 30experiences tolerance movement as the plunger 30 advances through bore40. Thus, in some instances, notwithstanding any tolerance movement, theplunger tip 220 remains in contact with the interior wall 298.Accordingly, the second tapered wall 303 directed and centers theplunger tip 220 into the opening 170.

If the plunger 30 experiences tolerance movement such that the plungertip 220 no longer contacts the interior wall 298 of the bore 40, thefirst tapered wall 301, which includes the flexible wall portion 162,directs and centers the plunger tip 220 into the opening 170 formed atthe interface 172, resulting in contact between the plunger tip 220 andthe second tapered wall 303. When the plunger 30 becomes fully engagedwith the injector body 20, the tolerance movement is substantiallyreduced or eliminated, ensuring that the plunger tip 220 remains engagedwith the second tapered wall 303 and contoured ramp 180. In someinstances, full engagement between the plunger 30 and the injector body20 occurs when the cantilevered members 292 are fully engaged with theinterior wall 298 of the bore 40. Consequently, in instances wheretolerance movement may exist, upon full engagement between the plunger30 and the injector body 20, the flexible wall portion 162 no longerinfluences the position of the plunger 30. In any case, once the plungertip 220 advances through opening 170, the flexible wall portion 162 nolonger affects the directional path of plunger 30 nor any part thereof.

As the plunger tip 220 is advanced through the compartment 80 in slidingcontact with the receiving surface 190, the first groove 500 of theplunger tip 220 is positioned to engage the trailing haptic of IOL, suchas trailing haptic 450 of IOL 70, as shown in FIG. 8. As the plunger tip220 is further advanced, the plunger tip 220 encounters the contouredramp 180 and is forced vertically towards the door 90. This verticaldisplacement of the plunger tip 220, while remaining in contact with thereceiving surface 190, both folds the trailing haptic up over the opticof the IOL as well as align the second groove 510 of the plunger tip 220with a trailing edge of the haptic. Particularly, the surface 502 of theplunger tip 220 contacts and displaces the haptic 450 as the plunger tip220 is passed along the contoured surface 180, thereby folding thetrailing haptic 450. As the trailing haptic 450 folds, the contouredsurface 192 and wall 194 work in concert to both locate the freelyextending end 452 of the trailing haptic 450 above and over the optic460. The profile of the contoured surface 192 operates to lift thetrailing haptic 450 as the plunger tip 220 is displaced towards thedistal end 60 of the injector body 20. The wall 194 constrains lateralmovement of the freely extending end 452 of the trailing haptic 450,which cause the haptic to move distally relative to the optic 460.Consequently, the trailing haptic 450 is both raised above and foldedover the optic 460 as the plunger tip 220 contacts the trailing haptic450 and follows along the contoured ramp 180. As the plunger tip 220 isfurther advanced, the second groove 510 accepts the trailing edge of theoptic 460, and the plunger tip 220 is displaced vertically away from thedoor 90 due to a combination of influences from both the decreasingslope of the contoured ramp 180 and the angled portion 212 of theplunger rod 210. Movement of the plunger tip 220 in the manner describedprovides for improved engagement and folding of the IOL 70.

FIG. 19 is a detail view of a portion of the distal end 60 of theinjector body 20. The distal end 60 includes a tapered portion 62 andthe insertion depth guard 140. The distal end 265 of the biasing element260 may engage the proximal end 50 of the injector body 20 to define apause location of the folded or partially folded IOL. The nozzle 120 mayinclude a demarcation 1900 that provides a visual indication of thepause position. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 19, thedemarcation 1900 is a narrow ridge or line that encircles all or aportion of the distal end 60. In some instances, the demarcation 1900may be disposed between the tapered portion 62 and the insertion depthguard 140. At least a portion of the injector body 20 may be formed forma transparent or semi-transparent material that permits a user to see anIOL within the injector body 20. Particularly, the distal end 60 of theinjector body 20 may be formed from a transparent material to permitobservation of the IOL as it is moved therethrough by the plunger 30.

FIG. 20 shows a view of the distal end 60 of the IOL injector 10 withIOL 70 located therein at a pause position. As shown in FIG. 20, thepause position of the IOL may be defined as a location where the distaledge 462 of optic 460 of the IOL 70 substantially aligns with thedemarcation 1900. A haptic 450 or a portion thereof may extend beyondthe demarcation 1900. Again, the pause position may also correspond tothe initial engagement of the distal end 265 of the biasing element 260with the proximal end 50 of the injector body 20. Therefore, the pauselocation may be jointly indicated by positioning of the IOL, or partthereof, relative to the demarcation 1900 and the initial contactbetween the distal end 265 of the biasing element 260.

In other instances, a location of the IOL relative to the distal opening12 of the nozzle 120 when the distal end 256 of the biasing element 260contacts the proximal end 50 of the injector body 20 may vary. In someinstances, the IOL may be partially ejected from the distal opening 125when the distal end 265 of the biasing element 260 contacts the proximalend 50 of the injector body 20. For example, in some instances,approximately half of the IOL may be ejected from the distal opening 125when the distal end 256 of the biasing element 260 contacts the proximalend 50 of the injector body 20. In other instances, the IOL may becontained wholly within the IOL injector when the distal end 256 of thebiasing element 260 contacts the proximal end 50 of the injector body20.

FIG. 21 shows a cross sectional view of the opening 170 formed at theinterface 172. In some instances, the opening 170 may define a “T”shape. The plunger tip 220 is shown disposed at the opening 170 with theflexible wall portion 162 contacting a surface 214 the plunger rod 210.In some instances, the cross section of the plunger rod 210 increasestowards the proximal end of the plunger rod 210. Thus, as the plungerrod 210 is advanced through the opening 170, the plunger rod 210 fillsthe opening as a result of the increasing cross section. Portions 173and 175 of the opening 170 are filled by flanges 213, 215 (shown in FIG.11).

As the opening 170 is filled by the increasing cross section of theplunger rod 210 as the plunger rod 210 is advanced distally through theinjector body 20, the flexible wall portion 162 is flexed in thedirection of arrow 471 to permit passage of the plunger rod 210, asshown in FIG. 22. Further, as a result of the angled portion 212 of theplunger rod 210, the contoured ramp 180, and the folding of IOL 70 as itis advanced through the IOL injector 10, the plunger tip 220 is made tofollow a defined path through the compartment 80, the distal end 60, andnozzle 120 uninfluenced by the flexible wall portion 162.

FIG. 22 shows the flexible wall portion 162 being flexed in thedirection of 471 as the plunger rod 210 continues to advance distallythrough the IOL injector 10. Further, FIG. 22 also shows the plunger tip220 engaged with IOL 70 such that trailing haptic 450 is received intothe first groove 500 at a location offset from the second groove 510,and the proximal edge of the optic 460 is received into the secondgroove 510.

As the IOL 70 is advanced through the passage 64 of the distal end 60,the IOL 70 is folded into a reduced size to permit passage of the IOL 70through the nozzle 120 and into the eye. During folding of the IOL 70, aresistive force on the plunger 30 is increased. Once the IOL 70 is fullyfolded 70, the resistive force on the plunger 30 generally reduces.

A wound may be formed in the eye. The wound may be sized to accommodatethe nozzle 120 of the IOL injector 10. The nozzle 120 may be insertedinto the wound. The nozzle 120 may be advanced through the wound untilthe flanged surface 150 of the insertion depth guard 140 abuts theexterior surface of the eye. Contact between the insertion depth guard140 and the exterior surface of the eye limits the depth to which thenozzle 120 may be inserted into the eye, preventing unnecessary stresson the edges of the wound as well as preventing enlargement of the wounddue to over insertion of the IOL injector 10. Consequently, theinsertion depth guard 140 operates to reduce additional trauma to theeye and enlargement of the wound.

With the nozzle properly positioned within the eye through the wound,the user may complete delivery of the folded IOL into the eye. Referringagain to FIG. 15, as advancement of the plunger 30 continues, thebiasing element 260 is compressed (indicated by the dotted outline ofbiasing element 260). Compression of biasing element 260 increases aresistive force to advancement of the plunger 30, also referred to asplunging force. This additional resistance to advancement of the plunger30 diminishes changes to the plunging force associated with the foldingof the IOL prior to insertion into the eye. Further, in some instances,the biasing element 260 may be made to contact the injector body 120when, or proximate to when, the IOL 70 has fully folded so that the areduction in resistive force that may result from the IOL 70 being fullyfolded may be offset by the compression of the biasing element 260. Thisincrease in resistive force provided by compression of the biasingelement 260, particularly in light of a reduction that may result due tothe IOL 70 being fully folded, provides improved tactile feedback to auser, such as a medical profession, during delivery of the IOL 70 intoan eye. This improved tactical feedback provides the user with improvedcontrol during delivery of the IOL 70, which may prevent rapid expulsionof the IOL 70 into the eye.

As a result, the user is able to provide a smooth application of forcewithout experiencing any sudden or rapid changes in advancement of theplunger 30. Such sudden or rapid changes may result in the IOL beingrapidly expelled from an injector. Rapid expulsion of an IOL into an eyemay cause damage, such as perforation of the capsular bag. Such damagemay increase the time required to compete the surgical procedure and mayincrease the harm caused immediately and post operatively to thepatient. Upon insertion of the IOL into the eye, the IOL injector 10 maybe withdrawn from the eye.

FIGS. 23-26 show example advancement stops operable to prevent actuationof biasing element 260. For example, in some instances, the exampleadvancement stops are operable to prevent compression of the biasingelement 260 and prevent advancement of the plunger 30 through theinjector body 20 beyond a selected amount. Referring to FIGS. 23 and 24,an advancement stop 2300 is shown coupled to the body portion 200 of theplunger 30 between the flange 240 and the collar 261 of biasing element260. The advancement stop 2300 may be moved into engagement with theplunger 30 laterally in the direction of arrow 2310. Similarly, theadvancement stop 220 may be removed from the plunger 30 laterallydisplacing the advancement stop 2300 in the direction of arrow 2320. Theadvancement stop 2300 may be retained on the plunger 30 such as by africtional engagement and/or a detent between one or more portions ofthe plunger 30 and the advancement stop 2300. A user may manipulate theadvancement stop 2300 via a tab 2330 formed thereon. The advancementstop 2300 may be formed from a rigid material, such as a polymer,composite material, metal, or any other suitable material.

Inclusion of the advancement stop 2300 onto the plunger 30 preventsactuation of the biasing element 260 and further advancement of theplunger 30 through the injector body 20 when the distal end 265 of thebiasing element 260 contacts the proximal end 50 of the injector body20. Any force acting on the distal end 265 of the biasing element 260 istransmitted from the collar 261 through the advancement stop 2300 andinto the flange 240. In some instances, inclusion of the advancementstop 2300 may be useful to prevent sudden ejection of an IOL from IOLinjector 10 due, for example, to excessive forces applied to the IOLinjector 10 by the user. In other instances, the advancement stop 2300may be included in order to ensure that advance of the IOL ceases uponreaching a selected location within the IOL injector 10. For example,the advancement stop 2300 may prevent further advancement of the IOLonce the IOL has reached the pause position. However, an advancementstop, such as the advancement stops described herein, need not beincluded or otherwise utilized with the IOL injector 10.

FIGS. 25-26 illustrate another example implementation of an advancementstop. Example advancement stop 2500 is shown coupled to the plunger 30.The advancement stop 2500 includes a central member 2510 with arc-shapedwings 2520 extending therefrom. The central member 2510 has an arcuatecross-section that is received onto the body portion 200 of the plunger30. The arc shape of the wings 2520 may conform or substantially conformto the shape of the biasing element 260. The advancement stop 2500 maybe retained on the plunger 30 such as by a frictional engagement and/ora detent between one or more portions of the plunger, e.g., biasingelement 260 and/or body portion 200, to name a few examples, and theadvancement stop 2500, e.g., surfaces of the advancement stop 2500abutting the biasing element 260, the collar 261, and/or flange 240, toname a few examples. The advancement stop 2500 may be formed from arigid material, such as a polymer, composite material, metal, or anyother suitable material.

Advancement stop 2500 may operate similarly to the advancement stop2300. When coupled to the plunger 30, the advancement stop 2500 limitsan amount the plunger 30 may be displaced within the injector body 20.In some instances, when the plunger 30 has been displaced within theinjector body 20 by the selected amount, a distal end of the centralmember 2510 contacts the proximal end 50 of the injector body 20. Thecentral member 2510 transmits any force to the flange 240, therebypreventing actuation of the biasing element 260. In other instances, thecollar 261 may contact the proximal end 50 of the injector body 20.However, the close engagement between the biasing element 260 and theconforming wings 2520 prevents outward flexure of the biasing element260, thereby preventing actuation of the biasing element 260.

Although the disclosure provides numerous examples, the scope of thepresent disclosure is not so limited. Rather, a wide range ofmodification, change, and substitution is contemplated in the foregoingdisclosure. It is understood that such variations may be made to theforegoing without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. An intraocular lens injector comprising: aninjector body comprising: a bore defined by an interior wall; aninsertion depth guard disposed at a distal end of the injector body, theinsertion depth guard comprising a flanged surface; a nozzle extendingdistally beyond the insertion depth guard; a tab formed at a proximalend thereof of the injector body, a groove extending through the tab;and an aperture aligned with the groove; a plunger slideable in thebore; and a plunger stop comprising a protrusion, wherein the plungerstop is removably received in the groove such that the protrusionextends through the aperture and into a slot formed in the plunger, andwherein the plunger comprises a cantilevered member, wherein the borecomprises a shoulder, and the aperture formed in the injector bodyaligns with the slot formed in the plunger when the cantilevered memberengages the shoulder.
 2. The intraocular lens injector of claim 1,wherein the flanged surface is a curved surface.
 3. The intraocular lensinjector of claim 2, wherein the curved surface is a spherical surface.4. The intraocular lens injector of claim 1, wherein the plungercomprises: a body portion; and a biasing element disposed adjacent to aproximal end of the body portion, the biasing element deformable uponengagement with the injector body to produce a force resistive tofurther advancement of the plunger through the bore.
 5. The intraocularlens injector of claim 4, wherein the biasing element comprises achannel, and wherein the body portion of the plunger extends through thechannel.
 6. The intraocular lens injector device of claim 1, wherein thecantilevered member deflectively engages the interior wall of the boreas the plunger is advanced through the bore.
 7. The intraocular lensinjector of claim 1 further comprising an advancement stop removablycoupled to the plunger, the advancement stop adapted to limit an amountby which the plunger is permitted to advance through the bore.